Direct answer
Top-rack-only failure points to loading, a blocked upper spray arm, a disconnected rack water feed or insufficient circulation to that level.
What this covers
- Dishwashers · spray system
- The exact symptom in the title before component-level repair
- Consumer-accessible controls, connections and maintenance areas
What it does not cover
- ×Smoke, burning odor, swelling, liquid on powered parts or damaged wiring
- ×Opening sealed panels, bypassing interlocks or live-electrical testing
- ×Account ownership, billing or warranty disputes
Observe before changing anything
ReversibleConfirm the upper arm turns freely and inspect where the rack docks into the rear or side water port.
Isolate the failing boundary
ReversibleRun empty after clearing approved spray holes and fully seating the adjustable rack.
Apply the narrow correction
ReversibleReload tall items away from spray paths and use the cycle recommended for the soil level.
Verify the result and stop at the boundary
ReversibleService is appropriate if the upper feed receives no water while lower wash action is strong.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Visible sources support the visible claims. Home Product Support records the publisher, the fact used and the review date; community reports can suggest an issue but do not become a published fact on their own.
Exact questions
Common follow-ups
What should I check first for “Dishwasher top rack is not getting clean”?+
Confirm the upper arm turns freely and inspect where the rack docks into the rear or side water port.
How do I know whether the problem is external or inside the device?+
Run empty after clearing approved spray holes and fully seating the adjustable rack.
When should I stop and request repair?+
Service is appropriate if the upper feed receives no water while lower wash action is strong.
Answer for the exact device and software version shown above.